Summing up 1,825 days of progress, renewal, change and controversy at Saint Louis University may seem a daunting task, yet doing so was the focus of University President Lawrence Biondi, S.J.’s State of the University Address.

In front of a crowd of more than 150 faculty, staff and students, Biondi delivered his address yesterday afternoon in St. Francis Xavier College Church.

“I am proud of what Saint Louis University has become: an institution of distinction poised on the threshold of greatness,” he said.

Biondi stated his belief that SLU is moving “purposefully and strategically” toward the goal of becoming the finest Catholic university in the nation, a goal that has been reiterated and emphasized during his 13-year tenure.

The University’s accomplishments mentioned during Biondi’s address included:

 bringing in the largest-ever freshmen class of 1,398 students, with academic achievements in the form of an ACT average of 26.1 and a SAT average of 1,176;

 being recognized as one of the country’s best values by U.S. News and World Report in its annual ranking of national universities that offer educational value;

 achieving an all-time high of $38 million in fiscal year 2000 toward externally-funded research and grants;

 naming the John Cook School of Business and Administration and the Edward and Margaret Doisy School of Allied Health Professions, as well as establishing several endowed chairs;

 being recognized as one of St. Louis’ best places to work by the Business Journal, with 4,756 employees;

 contributing more than 430,000 community service hours to St. Louis area organizations, groups and individuals;

 wiring and equipping classrooms, auditoriums and laboratories across the University with modern computer and video technology;

 acquiring several buildings this year, including the Compton Heights facility, and continuing to invest in the neighborhoods that surround the campus and acquire additional properties located on or near campus that become available.

“Our communal achievements stand before us-these truths are to be celebrated, enjoyed and proclaimed,” Biondi said.

“But we cannot allow ourselves to rest or relax or revel too long or too often in our accomplishments,” he added.